In Saha - who arrived at the crease late on day three following the dismissal of Ravichandran Ashwin - Pujara found an able partner and the pair set about extinguishing Australia's chances of edging ahead in the four-match series.

For Pujara, his total represented a second double century against Australia - the most by any Indian batsman, alongside Sachin Tendulkar and VVS Laxman.

Saha, meanwhile, brought up his third Test ton off 214 deliveries, before the pair were dismissed - both caught by Glenn Maxwell in pursuit of quick runs to boost the Indian total ahead of declaration.

India added 62 following Saha's exit and Australia made a shaky start to their second innings.

David Warner (14) was bowled by Ravindra Jadeja (2-6), before nightwatchman Nathan Lyon (2) suffered the same fate with the final delivery of the day.

Matt Renshaw sits on seven not out heading into a final day Australia will likely have to bat through in order to secure a draw and keep their hopes of winning the series alive ahead of the final Test in Dharamsala.